US-based A123 Systems Chosen to Build and Supply Chrysler's Electric Car Batteries

By Lyle Dennis

Lyle Dennis

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2009 Chrysler 200C Concept

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Today Chrysler announced that they have chosen Massachusetts-based A123 Systems to build and supply the batteries that will power their future electric cars. Chrysler has previously displayed four different electric cars that make up their ENVI program. This included the 2-seat Circuit Roadster as well as an extended-range Minivan, Jeep Patriot, a stylish 200c sedan. Chrysler reported in January that they would bring one of these cars to production in 2010.

The announcement indicates that an agreement has now been signed stating that A123 would be supplying the first generation of these scalable energy storage systems for that vehicle.
Press Release:

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Apr 6, 2009 -- Chrysler LLC today announced one of its strategic partners and production battery supplier for the company's first production electric vehicles. Chrysler LLC and A123Systems have signed an agreement stating that A123Systems will supply energy storage systems for Chrysler's first-generation ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicles and battery only Electric Vehicles. A123Systems is an American battery supplier with plans for a Michigan-based production facility.

"This is a great example of two American companies working together to put cutting-edge technology on the road," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "The most significant challenge to electric vehicles is battery technology. The diligent selection of strategic partners like A123Systems helps Chrysler achieve its leadership in electric-drive systems and vehicles."

"Chrysler's partnership with A123Systems marks a significant milestone at a critical time in the automotive industry and in the state of Michigan," said Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "This strategic alliance that will result in two companies joining forces to develop and produce advanced technology in Michigan will create new jobs in the state, deliver benefits to consumers and contribute significantly to bringing more environmentally friendly vehicles to market."

The heart of ENVI's battery system is a scalable battery module, as demonstrated in ENVI's five electric-drive vehicles showcased at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The five vehicles included the Dodge Circuit EV, Jeep® Wrangler EV, Jeep Patriot EV, Chrysler Town & Country EV and the Chrysler 200C EV concept. At the reveal, Chrysler announced its intention to bring the company's first production electric vehicle to market in 2010.

Individual lithium ion prismatic cells are integrated with a proprietary battery management safety system to create an efficient and flexible energy storage solution. This strategy is integrated in all of Chrysler's upcoming electric-drive vehicles, helping increase production volumes of the shared battery cell and shared battery module. Chrysler's approach reduces development time, investment, and overall battery system cost by combining the economics of high-volume component sharing without sacrificing the battery pack flexibility needed to develop a wide range of customer-driven electric-drive vehicles.

"We're very proud to have been selected to supply advanced battery systems for Chrysler's family of ENVI electric-drive vehicles," said David Vieau, President and CEO of A123Systems. "This bold move by Chrysler changes the game and greatly improves our country's ability to modernize our transportation fleet. We're confident that our collaboration with Chrysler will serve as proof that American innovation is alive and well and ready to lead the new global market for fuel-efficient electric vehicles."